Fractional CO2 laser: uses, recovery and what results to expect

Fractional CO2 laser is the reference standard for deep skin renewal: it improves acne scars, fine lines, enlarged pores and uneven texture. It is a powerful treatment, so it helps to understand what it does, what recovery is like and when it is the right choice.

What is it and how does it work?

The CO2 laser emits infrared light that the skin absorbs as heat. In its fractional form the beam is divided into thousands of micro-columns that treat only a fraction of the surface, leaving islands of healthy skin between them. This stimulates regeneration and new collagen with a much shorter recovery than traditional ablative laser.

What is it used for?

• Acne marks and scars.
• Fine lines on the forehead, around the eyes and mouth.
• Enlarged pores and uneven texture.
• Sun spots and sun damage (depending on the case).
• Mild laxity and dull skin.

What is a session like?

1. Medical assessment: skin type, phototype, history and goals.
2. Preparation: cleansing and topical anaesthetic for your comfort.
3. Laser: the applicator passes over the area; you feel warmth and mild pricking.
4. Immediate care: soothing products and sun protection.

Recovery: what to expect

When	What you notice
First 24–48 h	Redness and a feeling of heat, similar to sunburn.
Days 2–5	Tight skin, rough or dotted appearance, gradual peeling.
Days 5–10	Skin normalises; mineral make-up may be used if the doctor allows.
Weeks–months	Residual pinkness fades and texture improves gradually as collagen forms.

Timings vary with the intensity used. The key is to follow the instructions: moisturise, strict sun protection and do not pick at the skin.

Fractional CO2 compared with other lasers

Technology	Intensity	Ideal for	Recovery
Fractional CO2	High	Acne scars, wrinkles, texture	Several days
ResurFX	Medium	Gentle rejuvenation, spots, pores	A few days
IPL	Low	Pigmentation and redness	Minimal

When to do it, and who it is not for

It is best done outside the months of strongest sun, which is why autumn and winter are the ideal time. Check with the doctor first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an active infection (such as a cold sore), a tendency to keloid scarring, recent isotretinoin use or a recent tan.

Care before and after the laser

Before the session

• Avoid sun and tanning (including sunbeds) in the weeks beforehand.
• Tell us about any medication, especially isotretinoin, and any history of cold sores: your doctor may advise preventive treatment.
• Stop topical exfoliants and retinoids if advised.

After the session

• Cleanse gently and apply the repair creams the doctor recommends.
• Do not pick scabs or peeling skin: letting it fall off by itself prevents marks and pigmentation.
• Use SPF 50 every day and reapply it, even in winter.
• Avoid saunas, swimming pools and intense exercise for the first few days.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Doing it in midsummer. The sun is the main enemy of freshly treated skin.
• Choosing on price. An ablative laser needs settings adjusted to your skin and an experienced doctor.
• Expecting miracles in one session. Deep acne scars usually need a plan of several sessions and sometimes a combination with other treatments.
• Skipping sun protection. Pigmentation can appear and complicate the result.

Can it be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Depending on the goal, fractional CO2 laser can be complemented with biostimulation or mesotherapy to speed up recovery and improve skin quality, or with facial rejuvenation treatments such as radiofrequency to work on firmness. What matters is respecting the intervals between procedures, which a doctor sets after assessing your skin.

How much does fractional CO2 laser cost?

The cost depends on the area (full face, eye contour, neck, décolletage), the intensity and the number of sessions. That is why we do not quote a figure without meeting you: at the initial assessment we give you a clear quote with no obligation.

Frequently asked questions

Does fractional CO2 laser hurt?

A topical anaesthetic is applied. You feel warmth and mild pricking; afterwards, a stinging sensation like sunburn for a few hours.

How many sessions are needed?

It depends on the goal. For acne scars several sessions are usually planned; for rejuvenation, sometimes one is enough. The assessment decides.

When will I see results?

Once recovery is over the skin looks smoother; collagen improvement continues for months.

Can I sunbathe afterwards?

Not during the following weeks. High-protection sunscreen is essential, and direct sun should be avoided.

Is it suitable for all skin types?

It needs a prior assessment, especially for darker skin because of the risk of pigmentation. Settings are adjusted or another technology is suggested.

Where can I get CO2 laser in Orihuela Costa?

At Clínica MedYDerma, La Zenia. See also our CO2 laser page.

Article reviewed by Dr. Yanna, Clínica MedYDerma. Results vary from person to person; this content is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation.